Shaq declines invitation to discuss Magic GM job

Shaquille O'Neal has decided not to pursue the Orlando Magic general manager job. (Getty Photo)

NBA great Shaquille O'Neal has declined an invitation to interview for the Orlando Magic's vacant general manager position.

O'Neal earlier had expressed interest in the job.

“When I first heard about the vacancy for the Orlando Magic general manager position, I was clearly intrigued,” O'Neal said in a statement Thursday. “I was drafted by the Magic, I have a great love for the franchise, and I have made the city of Orlando my home. Additionally, I have great admiration and respect for the DeVos family.

”However, this is not a job I have an interest in pursuing. I feel very fortunate to be with TNT and to have the best job in sports. I look forward to many more years with Charles (Barkley), Kenny (Smith) and E.J. (Ernie Johnson). I wish the best for the Magic and I am confident that they will select a great GM and coach.“

Magic officials told ESPN.com Wednesday night that they won't publicly discuss the process or timetable of their GM and coach searches. On Monday, the team fired coach Stan Van Gundy and GM Otis Smith.

O'Neal played for the Magic from 1992-96 and led the club to the NBA Finals in 1995.